The music mogul and new dad has revealed that his former X Factor co-judge Cheryl Cole is set to return to the talent show this year.

Cheryl Cole is making her TheX Factor comeback this autumn. After weeks of speculation, Simon Cowell has confirmed that the singer’s return is definite through a tongue-in-cheek tweet, saying, ‘It’s official. Cheryl Cole is back.’

Cheryl confirmed the news in a statement, saying, ‘I’m very happy and excited to be returning to The X Factor. I’m inspired and ready to find new talent and potential pop stars. It’s going to be a fun series.’

The singer also posted a snap of herself with Simon, showing her hands around the new dad’s neck, with the caption, ‘GUESS WHAT!!.. baaaacccckkkkk!!!! #iMayActuallyRingHisNeck #XFactor2014 #leggooo (sic)’

Simon released an official statement, saying, 'I am so happy that Cheryl has agreed to join The X Factor again. The last time we worked together in the UK was incredible and produced some really successful artists. Obviously the plan is to do the same again… so it's back to work!'

Cheryl was a judge on the hit show alongside Simon from 2008 to 2010, securing a win in two consecutive years with her artists, after which she moved to judge the US version of the show. However things didn’t end well for the singer after Simon reportedly fired the former Girls Aloud singer. But perhaps fatherhood has softened Simon’s heart, tempting him to build bridges with Cheryl?

Simon welcomed his first baby – a son, Eric – just a few weeks ago and has showed off his gentler side numerous times since. The music mogul has admitted that his son’s birth made him cry and has shared a number of intimate snaps of his son.

Cheryl was one of the first celebrities to congratulate Simon and his partner Lauren Silverman on their son’s arrival, regramming an Instagram photo that the new dad uploaded.

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